09/30/2026
The Altus Police Department encourages residents to use caution when searching for homes on Facebook Marketplace, rental websites, and other online platforms.
Scammers may copy photos and details from legitimate listings, then pose as the owner or property manager. They may send fake contracts or lease agreements to make the transaction look legitimate and request application fees, deposits, or rent. After receiving your money, they may disappear.
A professional-looking contract does not prove that someone owns a property or has permission to rent or sell it.
Before sending money always:
ā¢ Meet the owner or authorized agent in person and tour the property.
ā¢ Independently verify their identity and authority to rent or sell it. Meeting someone or being shown a property is only part of that process.
ā¢ Search the propertyās address online. Conflicting prices, names, or contact information can be warning signs.
ā¢ Be cautious of anyone who claims to be out of town, refuses to meet, or pressures you to pay immediately.
ā¢ Do not pay through gift cards or cryptocurrency. Be cautious of requests for wire transfers or payment apps from someone you have not verified.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Take time to verify before handing over your money.
If you believe you have been scammed, save the listing, messages, contracts, and payment records. Contact your bank or payment service immediately and report the incident to your local law enforcement agency.
